How can you extend the living space in your Chiswick property? Think beyond the loft and the side extension and move into the garden.
Loft conversions are the first thing people think of but what do you do if the loft has already been extended or if there just isn’t enough roof and staircase space? Christian Harper of Oliver Finn cautions against over-extending: "A house with seven bedrooms but limited reception space just doesn’t make sense. Plus you have to factor in the expense and disruption of living alongside the builders for six months.”
There is another way – by moving into your garden. Oliver Finn has just such a property for sale in Chatsworth Road Grove Park, W4. Along with an abundance of trees, plants and shrubs, the 120' lawned rear garden is home to a self-contained office with its own power supply.
Gardens are a less invasive and more straightforward space solution says Lynne Fotheringham of InsideOut Buildings: “Building Regulations are becoming increasingly stringent. For instance since April 2008, the staircase to the loft has to be completely enclosed, and how many of us have space for that?
“The minimal invasion of your living space is the thing that clinches it for most people – no dust or mess inside the house and you can shut the door on the work as it goes on.”
Here are some top tips for using your garden for extra living space:
1 Who benefits most from a garden office?
Homeworkers, consultants, therapists, performers and musicians can all benefit. Gardens can accommodate a self-contained office, therapy room, study or studio – and provide a haven from the bustle of everyday family life. It’s a great way to take full advantage of your garden.
2 How much space do you need?
Possibly less than you think. A minimum of 50-60ft foot long garden can comfortably carry off a great, purpose-designed home office.
3 Is it a good investment during the credit crunch?
Certainly if the reason you’re moving is to get more space. In today’s market buyers may not be able to afford as much as your home is worth, and they are much more nervous about taking on larger mortgages (which are now more difficult to obtain).
4 What are garden rooms used for?
Many people create them for multi-use. You can create a workspace but also include a shower room, sofa bed or even a kitchen, so the pace can double up as guest accommodation. You can also add a shed on the end so that there’s space for garden essentials. Granny annexes are popular for older relatives who are becoming lonely in their own homes.
5 Are garden rooms eco-friendly?
Choose a firm that uses sustainable materials, and double insulation, so minimising energy costs.
6 How much value do garden rooms add to the property?
This will vary from house to house, and area to area, and it's difficult to put an exact figure on it. What is certainly true is that a well-built garden room impresses buyers and improves the saleability of the property.
7 Will it get chilly in winter or stuffy in summer?
Unless you live in a modern eco-friendly home, a double-glazed garden building is better insulated that the home you’re in now.
8 How much does it cost?
A good garden building costs from £22,600. Foundations and plumbing costs extra and varies from garden to garden.
9 Will I need planning permission?
Planning permission is not about the size of a garden office but about the location and intended use. Most garden offices do not need planning permission. Granny flats used as a separate dwelling will need planning permission, but there are many circumstances where small granny annexes and accommodation buildings don’t need consent.
10 How long does it take to build?
It’s usually three to four months from the first enquiry to being able to hang your curtains. If you need planning permission the process will take longer. Building time on site is often just a couple of weeks.
A garden room could be just the thing if you're looking for more living space or if you want to give your property the edge over similar properties in the area.
For a free planning permission service contact Lynn Fotheringham of InsideOut Buildings, on 01524 737999, or visit www.iobuild.co.uk
